More things to enjoy

Ten ideas for family fun in the Brecon Beacons National Park

Our National Park is the best ever playground. There are masses of things for active families to do. Of course, there’s no need to pack every day with expensive activities – simple things like picnics and Pooh sticks can be just as much fun. In fact, many of our favourite ideas are absolutely free.

1. Be king of the castle at Carreg Cennen

Let your dirty rascals scramble about on Carmarthenshire’s most striking ruins. They’ll feel on top of the world. To find out more, visit our page on Carreg Cennen Castle.

2. Paddle down the River Wye

Go canoeing or kayaking on the river with an experienced operator such as Wye Valley Canoes then tuck into a scrumptious local lunch on the riverbank at The River Café, Glasbury-on-Wye. To find out more, visit our page on canoeing and kayaking.

3. Play I Spy in Brecon, Abergavenny or Talgarth

Turn a shopping trip into a fun morning out by playing games which keep the kids’ eyes wide open. If one of our local farmers’ markets is in full swing, there will be lots of goodies to taste. To find out more, visit our page on farmers' markets.

4. Go pony trekking

Whether your kids are seasoned riders or absolute beginners, the qualified instructors at our riding centres will keep them safe. Kids as little as four years old can have a go. To find out more, visit our page on horse riding and pony trekking.

5. Climb a hill, go on a bug hunt and fly a kite

Climb a huge hill, looking out for butterflies, bees and other insects on the way. Sugar Loaf is a good one, with Mynydd Llanwenarth car park the best starting point. The ascent is easy at first, but little legs might want to skip the steep bit near the summit. Take a kite – on windy days, Sugar Loaf is a great flying spot. To find out more, visit our pages on walking.

6. Pick blackberries in the countryside

In late August and September, the hedgerows are stuffed with tasty berries. As long as you keep a careful eye on them, the kids can forage to their hearts’ content. To find out more, visit our page on natural habitats and nature trails.

9. Stare at the stars

If there’s a clear, moonless night during your visit, you’re in luck. The stars will put on a show. Get hold of a book, a chart or a stargazing map, and see if you can spot some of the constellations. To find out more, visit our page on stargazing.

10. Look for tracks in the snow

So it’s been snowing. Brilliant! It’s time for snowballs, snowmen, and some wildlife detective work. Head into the countryside, or just into the garden, and see if your kids can work out which creatures have passed by during the night. To find out more, visit our pages on wildlife-watching.